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Monaco admit Martial price is ‘unique’

Monaco chief Vadim Vasilyev has branded the price of new Man United signing Anthony Martial as “unique”, and says United upped their initial bid by £15m.

The 19-year-old, who scored 11 goals in 49 appearances for Monaco, became the most expensive teenager in the world after completing his move to Old Trafford from Monaco on deadline day for £36m.

But Vasilyev confirmed Arsene Wenger’s claim that the figure will eventually rise to £57.6m and said the “unprecedented resources” of British clubs means selling players like Anthony Martial is unavoidable.

“It’s true that the price for Martial is £57.6m but take into account this sum includes bonuses which are very realistic,” he said.

“Initially Martial was not for sale, it was absolutely not planned. Since last week United started to make offers which we declined several times – £21.6m, £28.8m, £36m, even £50.4m with bonuses.

“On Sunday the player for such an offer that he couldn’t have declined. He asked us to find a solution and on Monday morning Manchester United made an offer to Monaco which the club couldn’t refuse.

“It’s absolutely unique. Its the price of Luis Suarez or Neymar – the best players in the world.

“Right now English football is on a different financial level and if Manchester United decides to buy somebody, it’s very hard to stop them.”